Ukrainian Farmers Receive ₴92.7 Million in Grant Support for Horticulture and Greenhouses

Of this amount, ₴64.7 million was allocated for 13 farms engaged in horticulture, while the remaining ₴28 million went to 4 greenhouse producers.

1. Key Figures and Program Achievements

1. Total Payouts

   • Since the program’s inception, over ₴1.27 billion in grants have been issued to 268 agricultural producers.
   • Horticulture, Berry Growing, and Viticulture: 201 farms received ₴922 million in total, with 185 having fully utilized these funds.
   • Greenhouse Farming: 67 businesses secured ₴352.8 million, of which 63 have already used up their grant amounts entirely.

2. Breakdown of the Latest ₴92.7 Million

   • ₴64.7 million: For 13 farms planting orchards (fruit trees, berries, grapes).
   • ₴28 million: For 4 greenhouse producers expanding or improving cultivation under controlled environments.

2. Overview of the “e-Work” Program

1. Launch and Aim

   • Began in July 2022, targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
   • Provides grant funding to start or develop agrarian projects in horticulture, greenhouse farming, and more.

2. Funding Structure

   • Covers up to 70% of project costs, but capped at ₴10 million.
   • The remaining 30% must come from entrepreneurs (self-financing) or loans.
   • Key condition: Job creation in each funded project.

3. Job Creation Requirements

   • Horticulture: 5–10 permanent and 125–425 seasonal workers, dependent on the type of crops.
   • Greenhouse Farms: At least 4 permanent and 10 seasonal workers per hectare.

4. Program Expansion

   • In August 2024, the government included viticulture and further horticultural endeavors in the initiative.
   • For 2024–2025, financing leverages support from the World Bank under the ARISE project, aimed at restoring Ukrainian agriculture.

3. Significance for Ukrainian Agriculture

1. Boost for Horticulture and Greenhouses

   • With orchard and greenhouse owners gaining additional capital, the sector can modernize equipment, enhance irrigation systems, and adopt innovative cultivation methods.

2. Growth and Job Creation

   • The new positions (both permanent and seasonal) injected into rural areas stimulate local economies and reduce unemployment.

3. Risk Mitigation and Expansion

   • Access to partial grants helps SMEs undertake ambitious projects without bearing the full financial risk, thus fostering entrepreneurial growth.

4. Looking Ahead

1. Continued World Bank Support

   • Backing from ARISE ensures longer-term sustainability, providing a foundation for expansions or new agricultural businesses.

2. Potential for Higher Yields and Exports

   • Improved infrastructure in orchards, berry fields, and greenhouses can translate into greater harvests, raising the possibility of export-ready produce—especially vital for fruit, vegetables, and value-added products.

3. Strengthening Rural Communities

   • By targeting job creation, the program boosts incomes and invests in infrastructure—strengthening entire communities reliant on agriculture.

Conclusion

Through the “e-Work” program, Ukraine continues to channel critical funding into horticulture, viticulture, and greenhouse farming—supporting producers’ quest for innovation, expansion, and job creation. With ₴92.7 million newly allocated in 2025 to 17 agricultural ventures, and over ₴1.27 billion disbursed since inception, the initiative is reshaping the landscape of Ukrainian agribusiness. As the country’s farmers upscale production, adopt new technologies, and fulfill job quotas, Ukraine’s agricultural sector emerges ever more competitive and resilient.